The morning air buzzed with anticipation as servants scurried through the palace corridors, preparing the ceremonial arena for what everyone knew would be a spectacle. Word of Princess Lucy's challenge had spread like wildfire through the compound, and conversations in hushed tones filled every corner.
Kelvin sat at the breakfast table, mechanically shoving food into his mouth while staring at nothing. His cybernetic arms moved with uncharacteristic sluggishness, and when Diana asked him to pass the juice, he nearly knocked over three glasses in the process.
"I don't know how to feel about this," he announced to no one in particular. "On one hand, Sophie's my friend and I want her to win. On the other hand, Princess Lucy is absolutely terrifying and I kind of don't want Sophie to get her face rearranged by royalty."
"Your moral support is overwhelming," Sophie said dryly, though she was smiling.
